Unlocking Your Mind: 5 Captivating Reasons to Dive into Fiction

Whenever I ask someone if they read books, the response I get is that they read this great self-help book and it is very insightful, or that they read this book on business and economics that helped them gain financial knowledge. It is only rarely that I get a response that they’ve read novels and short stories. Honestly, I feel that most people are afraid or at least averse to reading fiction. They say that reading books makes them sleepy after a single page or that they are vehemently opposed to reading books after they’ve finally finished their studies (what even?!)

Fiction, especially novels, is one of the most wonderful things in my life. The characters in fiction have made me feel happy, share pain and anger, and laugh and cry with them. I want others to share this wonder with me. So, let me give you five reasons to read fiction.

1. You can meet new people

   
   

   All well-written fiction works are made up of a great ensemble of people as characters. And you can know the inner thoughts of these people—their desires, motivations, and fears—which you can rarely know in real life. In real life, you can only meet people who are your contemporaries. But in fiction, you can travel across time periods, cultures, and all walks of life. It's like we have both the Time Machine and the Anywhere Door in your hands (you’d know if you’ve watched Doraemon 😉).

2. Reduces Stress

   
   

   According to research from the University of Sussex, reading for just six minutes can significantly reduce stress levels by up to 68%, which is better than listening to music or drinking a cup of coffee. Whenever I have a bad day, I just read a novel because it creates a barrier between my mind and the problem I face. The struggles I have will become distant while I read, and after I finish reading, I look at my problem with a fresh perspective. You might say that you could watch a movie or series for that, but you’re only a passive participant in those pursuits. However, when you read, you engage your mind actively.

   
   

3. Enhances Empathy

   
   

   Readers of fiction score higher on measures of empathy and theory of mind—the ability to think about others' thoughts and feelings—than readers of non-fiction or those who don’t read at all. This is because, when you read fiction, you get the points of view of vastly different characters. This builds up your ability to relate to people’s emotions and circumstances in your day-to-day life. This can create a positive impact on all the relationships that you have.

   
   

4. Sparks Creativity and Innovation

   
   

   It is often said that science fiction is the precursor to inventions. Some of the greatest inventions of our time, like the cellphone, video calls, submarines, helicopters, rockets, and even nuclear power, were all inspired by science fiction. Immersive fiction reading also enhances your creative power by allowing your brain to make new connections that can lead to breakthroughs in our lives.

   
   

5. Improves vocabulary and concentration

   
   

   According to a Microsoft study, the average human attention span decreased from 12 seconds in 2000 to 8 seconds by 2022. Deep focus has been destroyed by social media and constant digital notifications. Fiction reading helps you improve your concentration span as you focus on keeping track of plots, side plots, characters, and the relationships between them. Reading fiction also improves your vocabulary as you come across new words in different contexts.

   
   

There is also an other reason for reading novels. It can help you to sleep! 😛

Clearly, reading fiction entertains you while also helping you deal with mental stress and improve your creative ability. I would say that it is the highest form of meditation and entertainment. What are you waiting for? Get started with a novel immediately! 😁 

Let me know in the comments if you need any book recommendations to start your fiction reading!